Re: Advice on where to start for racing
1. Read.
Take a look at the Links and Downloads pages in this forum. I think there would be consensus that you should start with Carl Lopez's Going Faster, but there are a LOT of resources there, some expensive but all dirt cheap compared to mistakes.
2. iRacing
The simulations presented by iRacing.com are VERY good, and they promise to get better. Scrounge hardware, wheel, pedals and monthly membership in the on-line racing site. Work through the classroom material. Spend a lot of time in cars that interest you on the skidpad (iRacing calls it "Centripetal Circuit.") Try to get the simulated car to do things described in the books and lessons. Try to detect differences in handing between different cars. Lap on circuits. Race when you think you're ready.
3. Youtube
With some reading and simulation background, you can watch, critique and learn from in-camera videos posted on Youtube and elsewhere.
4. Skippy Forums
Read stuff here. Post questions. You'll be amazed how people will fall all over themselves giving seasoned advice to anyone who seems to have done any homework at all and is interested in an answer.
5. Arrive and Drive Karting
Cheap. Fool around on your own. Try to figure out how the fast guys are doing it. If you're one of the fast guys, pick a class, get a kart and campaign it. If you get kind of stalled, think about buying some coaching time. Not a bad habit for later.
6. Go to the gym
During 1 through 5 above, work on your strength and stamina. Ordinarily conditioned people will fade even in sprint races. You can beat them in the late laps.
7. Skip Barber 3 Day in a car of your choice.
Of course if you're starting your second season in F2, then ignore everything I said.
- FredK
Last edited by Fred K; 08-19-2011 at 09:34 PM.
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